Newbie help: 2011 SE vs LE, and V6 vs 4 cylinder

[juxtaposed]

I'm a complete car newbie. I'm planning to buy a car this Memorial Day weekend, and I'm having trouble deciding which is best for me.

I really just need a car for commuting and the occasional drive to visit my parents 300 miles away. I don't drive it very hard, and I'm not a car enthusiast. The car is utilitarian for me. The only must have item is an iPod/iPhone connector so I can plug in my phone. Everything else -- sun roof, audio system, wheels, blah blah -- are nice, but not necessary and only add to the price.

I currently drive an '89 Celica, and it's lasted forever, but it's ready to go.

I *think* I want an SE V6 because the V6 will retain it's power over the long run, unlike my current 4 cylinder. That's my uneducated reasoning, anyway.

And the only reason I chose the SE is for the suspension -- I don't want the car to tilt that much on turns. But other than that, I have no real need for other things the SE offers.

Help?

[gator1939]

I am sure that you will hear different from the 98% 'hot car enthusiasts' here but I don't see why you need any more than the base Camry LE I-4. From your description this is all you need for power and mileage.

gator1939

[juxtaposed]

I plan to buy 1 car and drive it for the next 10-15 years. I really don't intend to swap out cars often.

I was looking at the V6 because of my perception that over time, the engine will get weaker, and with a V6, it won't be as noticeable as a 4-cylinder. Am I wrong?

[ricamryman]

If you maintain each engine per manual over the long run, they will both hold up.....

[gonzo08452]

well, based on what you described, you need any Camry....really can't go wrong with it...SE/LE/I4/V6 etc